Bird Flu - The Facts

Is Chicken Safe To Eat?

Yes, chicken is safe to eat.

The World Health Organisation and the Food Standards Agency confirm that you cannot catch bird flu from eating cooked chicken.

As the bird flu virus is heat-sensitive, it would be eradicated by normal cooking.  In any event there are tight control measures in place in Britain to prevent any infected birds from reaching the food chain.

Should I Take Any Precautions?

The usual rules of food preparation and good hygiene apply - ensure chicken is cooked through and wash your hands after handling any raw meat.

Some precautions, such as cleaning shoes and washing hands thoroughly, should be taken if you come into contact with wild birds, particularly the faeces of migratory wild water birds. 

Are Our Farms Prepared?

The government and industry have control measures in place and poultry farms in the UK operate high levels of biosecurity.

UK poultry keepers have been given advice on signs to watch out for and the appropriate measures to take if bird flu were to be suspected in a flock.

What Should I Do If I Find Dead Birds?

If you find one or more dead swans/ wild fowl (ducks and geese), more than three dead birds of the same species, or more than five dead birds of different species in the same place, you should contact the DEFRA Helpline on 08459-335577.

How Can I Make Sure The Chicken I Eat Is British?

For farm-assured British chicken that is fully traceable back to independently-inspected farms, look for the Red Tractor and Union Jack on packs.